Aruba

Practical Info about Aruba

Getting around the city

Hiring a car is a great way to get around the island, and many companies offer three-day specials for such excursions; however, travellers planning to stay on or near their resort will quickly find they don't really need a car. Aruba has a good bus system that connects most hotels with downtown Oranjestad, running roughly every 20 minutes from 8am to 6pm and every hour from 6pm to midnight, Monday through Saturday. Taxis are also available (although hard to hail, so it's best to have the hotel or restaurant call for one), and a preferable mode of transport after dark. There are no meters but drivers have a list of official fares.

Time

GMT -4

Electricity

Electric current in Aruba is 127 volts, 60Hz. Flat two- and three-pin plugs are standard.

Currency

The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The Florin is tied to the US Dollar. US currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad.

Communication

The international dialling code for Aruba is +297. City codes are not required. A GSM mobile network covers the island. Cellular phones are available for rental and internet cafes are widely available in tourist areas.

Climate

+

Oranjestad has a temperate climate with average daily highs reaching 82°F (28°C). The temperature never gets too high due to the cooling trade winds, but the best time to visit Oranjestad is in peak tourist season between mid-December and mid-April. Rainfall is infrequent, but likely to occur between October and January, if at all.

Queen Beatrix International Airport

Getting to the city

Local buses leave regularly to Oranjestad from bus stops just outside the airport property. Tour buses can take passengers to their required destination. Taxis are also available.

Car rental

Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Alamo, Budget and Hertz.

Airport taxi's

Taxis are available from the airport. Additional fees may be levied for extra luggage, public holidays and night time fares.

Facilities

The airport has a variety of shops including duty-free shopping, and several restaurants and snack bars. A bank offers banking services seven days a week. Internet stations are available, including wireless Internet access.

Parking

Short- or long-term parking is available with hourly rates beginning at AWG 3 and daily rates starting at AWG 30.